Your gynecologist provides medical guidance during many life-changing events. These are some of the things your gynecologist wish you knew so that you feel more at ease for your next examination.
Each time you schedule an appointment with your gynecologist, you might feel a wave of panic. If this is something you experience, you are not alone. A survey conducted in 2003 found that women feel a tremendous amount of fear and anxiety over visits to their gynecologist. You may not know it, but your gynecologist really does care about your comfort and wants you to feel at ease when you come in for your next appointment. It might bring you some peace of mind if you understand your gynecologist’s perspective. Here are 12 things your gynecologist wishes you knew before you come in for a visit.
1. You Can Visit Early and Often
As a parent, you can help with this first tidbit by taking your daughters to their first gynecological visit between the ages of 13 to 15. Teens may not need an examination, but it is a good time to introduce them to the idea to reduce their initial fears and help it become a normal part of their healthcare practice.
2. Grooming Is Not a Prerequisite for Your Visits
Your gynecologist does not care about your general grooming tendencies, so you don’t need to spend days deciding what you should do before your examination. Many gynocologist have stated that grooming habits are not something they even notice.
3. You Don’t Need to Shower Right Before Your Appointment
Many women worry about any unpleasant smells, discharge, or sweat before an appointment. Taking a bath or shower the night before is fine. However, if you are concerned, wear a panty liner and change it to stay fresh before your appointment.
4. Keep Good Hygiene Basic
The fewer products and foreign substances you use for hygiene purposes, in general, the better. That means you should refrain from frequent use of cleansing products. Aside from gentle soaps, water is the best way to stay clean without risking irritation, rashes, and even infections.
5. Some Bumps Are Worse Than Others
All types of things can cause skin bumps, including ingrown hairs and excessive heat. Monitor any bumps you may have, and discuss ones that concern you with your gynecologist.
6. Regular Itching Is a Problem
Whether it is a minor reaction to a new soap or the sign of an STD, it is important to pay attention to any itching since it is an indicator of a number of different issues.
7. The Difference Between Normal Discharge and Something Irregular
If you wear a panty liner regularly, you can easily note your normal vaginal discharge, which is a by-product of your vagina’s natural cleansing processes. If you see something other than the standard cloudy, white discharge, or an excessive amount of it, contact your gynecologist.
8. You Can Talk Frankly and Expect No Judgment
As vulnerable as you feel, it is important that you learn to see your gynecologist as your ally in your gynecological and reproductive health. It takes courage to talk about things such as sexual partners and potentially risky behaviors, but it is an essential part of your visit so your gynecologist can provide the best care possible. Your doctor is there to help you, not judge you!
9. Be Upfront About Birth Control Issues
If there is something about your birth control that you do not like, consult with your gynecologist before you stop taking it or make a sudden change. Your gynecologist can help you find which birth control method is right for you.
10. Discuss Your Reproductive Concerns and Plans
Whether you want to start a family right away, or if you are planning to wait until a later date, let your gynecologist know. They can help you proceed with an appropriate plan for your care and future appointments.
11. Cramps and Discomfort During Your Menstrual Cycle Are Normal
Intense and unrelenting pain are not normal. Prepare to talk to your gynecologist about the history of your menstrual cycle and your symptoms if they often cause excessive issues.
12. You Can Talk About Other Health Issues
Ideally, with all the candid discussions you have with your gynecologist, you develop a trust and a bond. If you feel concerned about anything from depression to worry about an ongoing condition or disease, your gynecologist wants to know. They can recommend a specialist if needed or provide other options for continued care.
If you have any issues, concerns, or would like to schedule a gynecologist examination, contact the Woman’s Clinic at (501) 664-4131. Our staff at The Woman’s Clinic believes that you should have access to high-quality care that covers all of your gynecological issues and needs.
